Sri Lanka, Sept. 20 -- Anthony Marinon Opatha, better known as Tony Opatha, one of the greatest fast-bowling all-rounders Sri Lanka produced passed away last week at the age of 73.

He was the spearhead of the Sri Lanka bowling attack from 1970 and his hard work and determination were key factors that could not be replaced until he retired at a young age of 29 after the second World Cup in 1979. He was never dropped from the side.

Opatha played for St.Peter's College and in his very first match took six wickets for just nine runs against Thurstan College who were all out for 19. He then went on to captain St Peter's in 1967 and won the Big Match against St Joseph's taking seven wickets in the match while breaking into the club scene with...